VETS Torchbearer Award Recipients

Bonni Cohen is an award-winning documentary filmmaker whose work has shaped public discourse on some of the most critical issues of our time. Her films include In Waves and War and The White House Effect (Telluride Film Festival premieres, Netflix 2025), and the Oscar-nominated Lead Me Home (Netflix). Her directing credits also include the Emmy-winning Athlete A, An Inconvenient Sequel: Truth to Power, and Audrie & Daisy. Through her body of work, Cohen has consistently demonstrated a commitment to truth, accountability, and social impact.

Jon Shenk is an Emmy-winning and Oscar-nominated director whose films have reached audiences worldwide and influenced public understanding of complex global issues. His work includes In Waves and War and The White House Effect (Telluride), Lead Me Home (Netflix), Athlete A (Netflix), An Inconvenient Sequel: Truth to Power (Paramount), Audrie & Daisy (Netflix), The Island President, and Lost Boys of Sudan. Shenk’s storytelling reflects a deep commitment to humanity, justice, and transformational change.

A pioneering physician-scientist and visionary in neuropsychiatry, Dr. Nolan Williams played a transformative role in advancing VETS’ mission. His groundbreaking research at Stanford University—including the landmark ibogaine study in collaboration with VETS—redefined what’s possible for those living with PTSD, TBI, and related conditions. Nolan brought not just scientific rigor, but deep compassion and a belief in veterans’ ability to heal. Though we are deeply saddened by his recent passing, his legacy continues to shape the future of psychedelic science and touch countless lives.

In Loving Memory

Dr. Nolan Williams was a trailblazer in neuroscience and a steadfast advocate for those seeking healing. As Director of the Stanford Brain Stimulation Lab, he pushed the boundaries of what modern mental health care could offer—developing innovative approaches such as SAINT and leading the first mechanistic clinical study of ibogaine in Special Operations veterans supported by VETS.

His work illuminated new possibilities for veterans living with the complex effects of TBI, PTSD, and treatment-resistant depression. Yet Nolan’s impact extended far beyond scientific discovery. He met veterans with humility and respect, listened deeply to their experiences, and held an unwavering belief in their capacity to heal. This rare combination of rigor and compassion shaped not only groundbreaking research, but also the culture of care and integrity that VETS strives to embody.

Dr. Williams’ passing in 2025 is a profound loss to the scientific community and to all who knew him. To VETS, he remains more than a collaborator—he is family, a trusted guide, and a steady voice of clarity during our most challenging moments. His legacy is active and enduring, carried forward through the lives he touched, the science he advanced, and the mission he continues to inspire. We honor Nolan not only in remembrance, but in action—by advancing the work he believed in and by carrying the torch of healing, courage, and possibility for veterans everywhere.

Dr. Andrew Huberman is recognized for his exceptional commitment to public education and his impact in advancing scientific understanding of mental, physical, and spiritual wellness. His work has empowered millions worldwide with accessible, evidence-based knowledge—helping more people understand the science of healing, resilience, and human potential.

Through his globally recognized educational platforms, Dr. Huberman brings clarity to complex scientific concepts, making leading-edge research understandable and actionable for diverse audiences. His willingness to openly discuss psychedelic science, neurobiology, and effective mental health interventions has played a pivotal role in reducing stigma and inspiring hope.

Dr. Huberman’s commitment to sharing high-quality, evidence-based information aligns strongly with the VETS mission. His platform has consistently elevated conversations about veteran health, the challenges faced by those with traumatic brain injuries and post-traumatic stress, and the promise of psychedelic-assisted therapies as a potential pathway to healing.

We honor Dr. Huberman for his generosity, his pursuit of scientific excellence, and his efforts to illuminate new possibilities for those seeking hope, understanding, and transformation.

Rep. Dan Crenshaw is honored for his steadfast dedication to expanding access to innovative treatments for veterans and active-duty service members. His leadership in advancing H.R. 3684 demonstrates a profound commitment to those who continue to bear the invisible wounds of war.

A decorated Navy SEAL veteran, Rep. Crenshaw has used his platform in Congress to champion policies that ensure veterans have access to the most promising care options available. His work on the Douglas “Mike” Day Psychedelic Therapy Act represents a landmark effort to accelerate research, reduce barriers, and support therapeutic innovation for those affected by TBI, PTSD, and related conditions.

By courageously advocating for legislation rooted in evidence, compassion, and urgency, Rep. Crenshaw has become a powerful voice for systemic change. His leadership has helped usher psychedelic-assisted therapy into the national policy conversation—creating new momentum for research funding, clinical study expansion, and veteran-centered care.

We recognize Rep. Crenshaw for his heartfelt commitment to those who have served, and for championing solutions that bring veterans closer to effective, evidence-led treatment options.

Former Texas Governor Rick Perry has been a steadfast ally in the fight to expand access to psychedelic-assisted therapies for veterans. As one of the earliest and most prominent public officials to champion this cause, Governor Perry’s advocacy helped lay the groundwork for key legislative victories - including Texas’ landmark HB 1802, which authorized the state’s first government-funded clinical study of psilocybin therapy for veterans with PTSD. His leadership has elevated national awareness of the mental health crisis facing veterans and the urgent need for innovative solutions. Governor Perry continues to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the veteran community, using his voice to open doors and challenge stigma. His courage, service, and vision exemplify the spirit of the Torchbearer Award.